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Photos from Jasmine and Yao's Instagram
MANILA — Filipina actress Jasmine Curtis-Smith stars opposite Yao in the upcoming indie romantic comedy “We Could Be In Love,” which is now in production.
The film also stars Jamie Chung, Lou Diamond Phillips, Tamlyn Tomita and Airline Inthyrath.
Directed by Marie Jamora and written by Terence Chen, “We Could Be In Love” follows Jasmine Aquino (Curtis-Smith), a working-class Filipina American woman who falls for Ambrose Lee (Yao), the wealthy heir to a prominent Chinese-Filipino dynasty.
As their relationship deepens, the pair are forced to navigate complex class divides, colorism, and the unspoken prejudices that shape love, identity, and belonging within the Asian diaspora.
"I grew up in the Philippines watching all the Hollywood rom-coms with my mom,” said Jamora, who directed the Cinemalaya entry "Ang Nawawala."
“Now that I have the opportunity to direct an Asian-led romantic comedy outside the traditional American studio system, it's so exciting to lean into the cultural nuance, authenticity, and heart that global audiences are craving. Jasmine and Yao bring a special combination of warmth, depth, and chemistry to their characters. I cannot wait to share our film with the world," she added.
"At its core, 'We Could Be In Love' is a classic, swoon-worthy romance that doesn't shy away from the real cultural and economic friction points within our communities," writer and executive producer Terence Chen said.
"We are thrilled to be filming in New York and Manila and capturing the vibrant, modern backdrop of these cities," Chen added.
The film is being produced by Geri Leigh Tiu, Annie Huang and Sonca Nguyen. Executive producers include Terence Chen, Thea Jacinto Ugarte, and Jon-Adrian "JJ" Velazquez (Sing Sing).
Behind the camera, the creative team features costume designer Hannah Kittell. Dino-Ray Ramos serves as Cultural Consultant on the film. Tiu, Chen, Ugarte, Kittell, and Nguyen are all part of Tiger & Dog Productions.